City of Denton Appoints New Police Chief

City Manager Todd Hileman has announced the appointment of Frank Dixon to the position of Police Chief.

Dixon brings more than 23 years of public service and leadership experience to the position. Dixon will begin as Police Chief on Oct. 15.

“Chief Dixon has proven to be an innovative and experienced leader throughout his career,” said City Manager Todd Hileman. “Frank has demonstrated a commitment to community policing and community engagement strategies. And, his experience in many aspects of law enforcement has prepared him well to move the Denton Police Department forward.”

Chief Dixon currently serves as an Assistant Chief with the Austin Police Department. He currently leads APD’s South Patrol Bureau, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and the Special Operations Division, which includes the SWAT team, Bomb Squad, Air Support Unit, and K-9 Unit. As Assistant Chief of the Bomb Squad and SWAT Team, he led the Special Operations response and resolution to recent Austin Bombing incident.

“I am humbled and excited to become the next Chief of the Denton Police Department,” said Chief Dixon. “The Denton Police Department is composed of dedicated men and women who proudly serve the community. My goals as Chief will be to continue to engage the Denton community, work with citizens to make Denton safer, and create partnerships with civic, neighborhood, and community groups to address the unique and diverse issues facing communities today.”

Chief Dixon holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Lamar University and is a graduate of the 73rd session of the Senior Management Institute for Police by the Police Executive Research Forum, APD’s Leadership Command College, and the West Point Leadership Course. Prior to being appointed Assistant Chief, Dixon was a lieutenant in the Internal Affairs Division, and has previously served as a lieutenant in the Organized Crime Division and the Region 3 Patrol Services Division. He has also served in other various roles, including uniformed patrol, Street Response, Narcotics, Gang Unit/Major Crimes Task Force, Homicide Detective, Patrol K-9, SWAT Sergeant, and Counter-Assault Strike Team.

The City of Denton started the selection process in June by working with executive recruitment firm Ralph Andersen & Associates to launch a nationwide search for candidates. After a thorough review and screening of 111 applicants, six finalists were interviewed by executive staff, two community organization panels with 20 groups represented, a panel of current DPD employees, and held a meet and greet with City Council Members. In addition, the candidates were introduced to the Denton community through a public open house, which provided citizens the opportunity to provide feedback on all candidates. To make the final selection, a City team conducted site visits with two finalists, with Chief Dixon being selected as the top candidate.